What's in the Box
Freestyle2 Blue keyboard
Pivot Tether
Charging Cable
Connect with 3 bluetooth-enabled devices and instantly switch between them
- Computer
- Tablet
- SmartPhone
*Note: For best results, we recommend using the keyboard with PCs that have integrated Bluetooth. 3rd party Bluetooth dongles can be used, but the stability of the connection can suffer.
Built-In, Rechargeable Battery
The Freestyle2 Blue features a rechargeable lithium polymer battery which can last up to 6 months on a single charge. The battery will arrive with a partial charge, so we recommend charging the keyboard before use.
Charging
Gently fit the smaller, micro-USB end of the charging cable into the charging port on the keyboard and connect the other end of the cable to a USB port on a computer or USB hub. The green “PWR” led will flash to indicate the battery is charging. The green LED will chage to steady illumination (~3 hours) when the battery has been fully charged. WARNING: Do not use a 3rd cable or connect the keyboard to smart phone or tablet chargers.
Pairing the keyboard
The Freestyle2 Blue must be wirelessly paired with each device you plan to use. Each computer is slightly different so for detailed pairing instructions please consult the Quick Start Guide or watch a pairing video.
- Turn on the keyboard by sliding the on/off switch to the left.
- Press the “Connect” button on the underside of the keyboard
- Hold the “Fn” key and then tap one of the three channel keys to assign the device to one of the 3 channels.
- On your target computer, locate the Bluetooth connection screen and ask it to “Search for devices” or “Add a device”.
- When the computer identifies the Freestyle2 Blue (“KB800PB-BT” or “KB800MB-BT”), type the security code provided by the computer. Pairing may take up to a minute once the correct code has been transmitted.
*Note: The charging cable cannot send data to the PC so it is not a substitute for pairing the keyboard.
Pivot Tether
The optional pivot tether is designed to allow for adjustable splay of the key modules to keep wrists neutral, without separating the modules. To remove the pivot tether, slide the appropriate release button towards the outside of the keyboard and allow the pivot tether to detach from the keyboard. Experiment with various split and splay configurations to find what works best for your body
Installing Optional Accessories
Palm Supports
For added wrist support and enhanced comfort, connect the detachable palm supports. Peel the backing off the adhesive pads and apply to the palm supports underneath your palms. Pads are designed to last 6-12 months and then be replaced.
Tenting
Add one of our popular tenting accessories (3 adjustable heights) to your Freestyle2 reduce harmful forearm pronation. Choose the VIP3 for tenting with palm supports, or choose the V3 for tenting without palm supports.
Get to know your Freestyle2 Blue (Mac version shown)
Standard layout makes adaptation easy
Thanks to its conventional tenkeyless layout, the Freestyle2 Blue is easy to adapt and does not require “re-learning” to type. Most new users are up to full-speed in a matter of days, if not sooner.
All the alphanumeric keys are in conventional locations, editing keys have been consolidated into a convenient column on the right to keep the layout compact. On Mac versions the F1-F12 keys have been moved to the embbed layer for access via the “Fn” key. Handy hotkeys on the left hand-side can reduce awkward key combinations.
If the Freestyle2 is your first split keyboard, we recommend that you start typing with the modules pushed all the way together. As you get more comfortable, slowly separate and/or rotate the modules to achieve a more neutral wrist angle to reduce ulnar deviation.
If you need more than 10″ of separation, contact us to order the extended 20″ link cable.
Not a cure for pre-existing injuries
If you currently have an injury to your hands or arms, or have had such an injury in the past, it is important that you have realistic expectations of your keyboard.
The unique split-adjustable design of Freestyle2 is intended to reduce the physical stress that all keyboard users experience by allowing the keyboard to adjust to your body type, but ergonomic keyboards are not medical treatments, and no keyboard can be guaranteed to cure symptoms or prevent injuries.
Your physical trauma has built up over months or years, and it may take weeks before you notice a difference. It is normal to feel some new fatigue or discomfort as you adapt to your Kinesis keyboard.
Always consult your health care professional if you notice discomfort or other physical problems when you use your computer. If any information provided by Kinesis contradicts the advice you have received from a health care professional, please follow your health care professional’s instructions.
Getting started with tenting
For best results, start at the lowest tenting height and work your way up until you find the sweet spot for your body
V3 Pro Installation
VIP3 Pro Installation
You're Ready to Type!
Layout
Familiarize yourself with the basic layout of the Freestyle2 Blue. Some keys have moved slightly but you’ll find that all the alphanumeric keys are exactly where you would expect to find them on a tenkeyless keyboard.
If you come to find that you are missing the numeric 10-key, considering pairing your Freestyle2 Blue with a matching keypad from Kinesis.
Fn Layer
The Freestyle2 Blue is a dual-layer keyboard. Hold down the “Fn” key in the lower left corner of the keyboard to temporarily activate the “embedded” Fn Layer to access the the blue legended functions.
The Fn LED in the upper right corner of the keyboard will illuminate to indicate the Fn Layer is active.
Pairing with Mac Desktops, Tablets, & SmartPhones
Pairing with Android and Windows 7, 8 & 10 devices
FAQs
Can I change the hotkeys?
No. The Freestyle keyboard is not programmable. If you are looking for a programmable split keyboard, checkout the new Freestyle Pro.
Do I need to install any software or drivers?
No. The Freestyle2 keyboard is recognized by the operating system as a standard USB device and thus loads the default keyboard driver on the operating system. The Freestyle2 keyboard is 100% plug & play on Windows and Mac.
Do I need to turn the keyboard off when I'm not using it?
No. The Freestyle2 Blue was specifically designed to only draw battery power during active typing.
How long does the battery last?
A full charge should exceed 300 hours of actual typing or at least six months of “normal use” (2 hours of active typing per day).
How do I replace the batteries?
The Freestyle2 Blue uses a rechargeable Lithium Ion battery. Connect the micro-USB charging cable to the keyboard and then to your PC. A full charge will take 2-4 hours depending on your output of your PC.
Where is the USB dongle for my computer?
The Freestyle2 Blue is Bluetooth, not RF Wireless. The keyboard pairs directly with your bluetooth-enabled PC and does not require a dongle. If your PC is not equipped with bluetooth, you can purchase a 3rd party bluetooth dongle.
Can I use the charging cable for typing?
No, the charging cable is for charging only. It does not transmit key strokes it cannot be used in place of a Bluetooth connection.
How do I tell how much battery life I have remaining?
When you turn on the keyboard, the PWR/Battery LED briefly illuminates green to indicate battery status exceeds 1%. If you see the battery LED flashing red, you have a maximum of ~4 hours of typing time remaining, so charge the keyboard as soon as possible.
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Need Help?
Submit a trouble ticket and one of our trained US technicians would be happy to assist you.
